Who we are
We're here, too
There is a kind of death we all wish for ourselves and for others: in our advanced old age, after we have completed the cycles of life, after we have experienced joys and sorrows, after we have known romance, love, travel, excesses, sunsets and sunrises, after we’ve done everything we ever dreamed of, may death come and find us in a sweet sleep. Or while we’re taking our daily walk. Or as we raise a glass to make a toast among our loved ones. That is the kind of death we all hope for. Without pain, without being a burden to anyone, without even bothering us.
But we're here, too. The parents and relatives of those who left this life in this way at an early age. Far too early. As infants, as children, as young teenagers, and in the prime of their youth—the most productive years of their lives.
There are those of us who went to wake our children up in the morning and found them dead and frozen. Who went to watch their game at the stadium, on the field, or at the ballet, and saw them suddenly collapse and never get back up again.
There are those of us who took them to school and were picked up from the morgue. Those of us who spoke to them for the last time on the phone because they were leaving for vacation, and then they never answered another call because they died suddenly on the ferry to some island.
There are those of us who have been struck in the worst possible way by sudden death in youth.
So we decided that the rest of the world needs to be informed about Sudden Youthful Death. About the most unjust death of all—not because losing your child is ever any less painful, not even that!
But why this particular death It can be prevented.
In collaboration with existing structures, we are focusing on two main pillars:
One is for parents and relatives who have already been struck by the tragedy of NAT to know which doors to knock on once they receive the medical examiner’s report and to have immediate access to them.
Our children will not return, but we all need to protect our other children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, cousins, and future generations.
NO ONE should have to go through the same thing.
Given that early diagnosis and early intervention are possible, it’s alarming not to take action. On this site, you’ll find all the information you need to guide you through the process. And we’re always available to provide you with information, either by phone or email.
The second pillar is the prevention for the rest of the population. Genetic testing for genetic heart diseases It is now feasible and accessible, and the goal is for EOPPY to cover the costs for the entire population.
According to a 2018 study by the Hellenic Society of Cardiology, sudden death in young people affects 12–15 young people per MONTH in Greece.
Sudden Death in Young People refers to
Every Month
This number is most likely higher, which is why we concluded that we need to focus on the two pillars mentioned above: so that the research is more accurate and the results are more specific.
You don't have to be a victim to stay informed and spread the word. Believe me, you don't want to be in our shoes. But we, too, were once in your shoes. This ticking time bomb could be lurking in any home. Let’s all do whatever we can to help with this effort.
Thank you.
Association for the Prevention of Sudden Youth Death.
